Delhi HC Refuses Plea to Sell Existing Beverage Stock with ‘ORS’ Label, Upholds FSSAI Order
The Delhi High Court has refused to grant relief to a beverage company seeking permission to sell its existing stock labeled with the term “ORS”, reinforcing the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)’s
The Delhi High Court has refused to grant relief to a beverage company seeking permission to sell its existing stock labeled with the term “ORS”, reinforcing the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)’s stand against misleading labeling.
The court observed that allowing the sale of such beverages could confuse consumers and undermine public health, as the term “ORS” (Oral Rehydration Solution) is strictly regulated for medical grade formulations used to treat dehydration.
Earlier, the FSSAI had issued notices to several companies directing them to remove “ORS” from product names or labels, stating that their beverages did not meet WHO-prescribed standards for oral rehydration solutions.
The court emphasized that public health considerations outweigh commercial interests, and reaffirmed that food businesses must adhere to truthful labeling practices under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
Legal experts say this ruling sets a strong precedent for regulatory compliance in India’s rapidly growing functional beverages market, ensuring that medical terms are not misused for marketing purposes.
